If you’re craving a grilled cheese that bursts with unexpected flavors and a gourmet vibe, let me introduce you to the Blueberry Brie and Basil Grilled Cheese Recipe. This delightful sandwich combines creamy, oozy brie and tangy goat cheese with a touch of sweet, honey-sweetened blueberry jam and aromatic fresh basil, all nestled between hearty whole wheat sourdough slices and toasted to golden perfection. It’s summer on a plate and one of my absolute favorite indulgences when I want something both comforting and a little fancy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a truly memorable Blueberry Brie and Basil Grilled Cheese Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role—from the rich cheeses adding creaminess, to the blueberry jam delivering a perfect pop of sweetness, and the fresh basil bringing a hint of herbal brightness to the mix.
- Whole wheat sourdough bread: Provides a sturdy, slightly tangy base that crisps beautifully when grilled.
- Blueberry jam: Adds a fresh, sweet contrast that pairs wonderfully with the cheeses.
- Brie cheese: Creamy and mild, it melts into luscious gooeyness that’s absolutely dreamy.
- Goat cheese: Crumbled for tanginess and depth, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Fresh basil leaves: Infuse the sandwich with a fragrant, peppery touch for brightness.
- Unsalted butter: Slathered on the bread exterior for golden, crispy texture when grilled.
- Garlic salt: Sprinkled on for subtle savory notes that elevate the flavors.
- Olive oil: Used to toast the sandwich in the pan, promoting even browning without burning.
How to Make Blueberry Brie and Basil Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by slicing your brie into thick, even pieces and crumbling the goat cheese. Then lay out your bread slices—four will be topped with the luscious blueberry jam and fresh basil leaves, and the other four with the cheeses. This setup ensures every sandwich is an amazing balance of sweet, savory, and herbal.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread the blueberry jam evenly across half the bread slices. Place two basil leaves atop the jam for that fresh burst of flavor. On the opposite slices, distribute the brie and crumbled goat cheese generously. Now, sandwich the jam and cheese slices together to form four mouthwatering sandwiches.
Step 3: Butter and Season the Bread
Generously slather unsalted butter on the outside of both sides of each sandwich—this step is what guarantees golden, crunchy perfection. Don’t forget to sprinkle garlic salt on the buttered surfaces; it adds a subtle savory hint that complements the sweet and creamy fillings beautifully.
Step 4: Pan Toast the Sandwiches
Heat about a tablespoon of olive oil in a heavy skillet, ideally cast iron, over medium to medium-low heat. Once hot, carefully add the sandwiches and toast them 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until each side is gorgeously golden brown and crispy. This technique locks in the fillings and builds a wonderful crust.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese in the Oven
Transfer your toasted sandwiches onto a baking sheet and pop them into a preheated 400-degree oven for 2 to 3 minutes. This final step ensures the brie and goat cheese melt thoroughly into that irresistibly gooey texture you want in every bite.
Step 6: Let Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the sandwiches cool for a couple of minutes. This brief pause helps everything settle and makes slicing easier. Cut each sandwich in half to showcase the luscious filling and get ready to dive in.
How to Serve Blueberry Brie and Basil Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this sandwich with a few fresh basil leaves on the side not only enhances the presentation but also reinforces the lovely aromatic note. A light drizzle of honey on top can add an extra sweet contrast, especially if your blueberry jam is on the tarter side.
Side Dishes
Pair your Blueberry Brie and Basil Grilled Cheese Recipe with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance richness with refreshing acidity. Alternatively, a bowl of tomato soup complements the sandwich’s creamy, fruity elements perfectly for a classic combo with a gourmet twist.
Creative Ways to Present
For an enticing appetizer platter, slice the sandwiches into smaller triangles and serve them alongside a small dish of extra blueberry jam for dipping. You could even serve the sandwich open-faced with a basil leaf and berry garnish on top to really wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover Blueberry Brie and Basil Grilled Cheese sandwiches, wrap them snugly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days without sacrificing too much flavor.
Freezing
While this sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze assembled but un-toasted sandwiches wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw completely in the fridge before following the reheating instructions below.
Reheating
To bring your leftover sandwich back to life, skip the microwave and opt for reheating in a skillet over low heat to maintain crispness. Cover the pan briefly to help the cheese melt evenly and enjoy nearly as good as freshly made!
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this grilled cheese?
Absolutely! While whole wheat sourdough adds great flavor and texture, you can experiment with brioche, ciabatta, or a rustic country loaf depending on your preference—just make sure it holds up well when grilled.
Is it okay to substitute other fruits for blueberry jam?
Yes, feel free to get creative. Raspberry or blackberry jam makes excellent alternatives, and if you prefer something less sweet, a fig spread can add a deliciously sophisticated earthy sweetness.
Can I make a vegan version of this recipe?
For a vegan take, use plant-based cheese alternatives that melt well and swap the butter for a vegan spread or olive oil. For the jam, ensure it’s free of animal-derived ingredients. Fresh basil is naturally vegan and adds the same wonderful flavor.
How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Butter the outside of the bread liberally and toast on medium-low heat to create a crispy crust that keeps moisture inside. Also, avoid overloading with jam to prevent sogginess; balance is the secret!
Can I prepare this sandwich ahead of time for a picnic?
Yes! Assemble your sandwiches without buttering or cooking and wrap them well. When ready to eat, toast them in a pan or oven if possible. If not, they’re still delicious at room temperature, thanks to the sweet and savory combo.
Final Thoughts
The Blueberry Brie and Basil Grilled Cheese Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels both indulgent and fresh, effortless yet elegant. Whether you need a quick lunch with a twist or a crowd-pleasing snack for your next gathering, this sandwich hits all the right notes. Do yourself a favor and make it soon—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Blueberry Brie and Basil Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Blueberry Brie and Basil Grilled Cheese sandwich combines creamy brie and tangy goat cheese with a sweet and bright honey-sweetened blueberry jam and fresh basil, all layered on whole wheat sourdough bread. Grilled to golden perfection and finished in the oven for gooey melted cheese, this sandwich is a delightful gourmet twist on a classic grilled cheese, perfect for a summer lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Bread and Spread
- 8 slices whole wheat sourdough bread
- 1/3 cup blueberry jam
- Garlic salt to taste
Cheeses and Herbs
- 8 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 8 large fresh basil leaves
Fats and Oils
- 1–2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for finishing the sandwiches after grilling.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread the blueberry jam evenly on 4 slices of bread. Top each with 2 fresh basil leaves. On the remaining 4 slices, distribute the sliced brie and crumbled goat cheese evenly. Combine the jam-basil slices with the cheese slices to form sandwiches.
- Butter and Season: Generously spread unsalted butter on both outer sides of each sandwich and sprinkle with garlic salt to taste, ensuring flavorful, crispy crusts.
- Heat the Skillet: Warm about 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium to medium-low heat. The pan should be hot enough to heat the oil but not smoking.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until each side is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip to toast evenly.
- Finish in the Oven: Transfer the toasted sandwiches to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese inside is fully melted and gooey.
- Serve: Remove sandwiches from the oven, let cool slightly to avoid burning, cut each sandwich in half, and serve warm for maximum flavor and melty texture.
Notes
- Use a cast iron skillet for the best even toasting and flavor.
- Adjust garlic salt to your preference or substitute with garlic powder for a milder taste.
- You can substitute blueberry jam with any berry jam, such as raspberry or blackberry, for a different twist.
- Be careful when flipping the sandwiches to avoid spilling the melted cheese.
- Whole wheat sourdough bread gives a nutty flavor and sturdy base; feel free to use your preferred bread.
